Gov. Gregoire deserves credit for cap-and-trade plans

The Times editorial about the Western Climate Initiative’s new cap-and-trade program failed to give Gov. Christine Gregoire due credit for her role in making the WCI and cap-and-trade a reality [“The hard part is getting started,” Times, editorial, Sept. 25]. Gregoire, along with just four other governors, was one of the key architects of this plan.

The effects of climate change are already visible in Washington state — just look at the horrific storms of last winter. So much of our state’s industry and infrastructure relies on a healthy environment to succeed. If we don’t continue to address climate change now, our future economic health is at risk.

This is something gubernatorial opponent Dino Rossi doesn’t understand. He is still in denial about global warming. How will he continue our leadership in cap-and-trade programs if he still wants to debate whether emissions cause global warming?

It is imperative we have a governor who understands the threat climate change poses on our state’s future. Gregoire’s work in developing the Western Climate Initiative and its cap-and-trade program is just one example of her leadership on climate change. She deserves re-election.

Welcome to The Seattle Times' online letters to the editor, a sampling of readers' opinions. Join the conversation by commenting on these letters or send your own letter of up to 200 words letters@seattletimes.com.